Polisher help or recommendations?

[Mach1USMC]

Agreed with the Flex all the way. But wouldn't it be neat if the Flex came in a mini size that can handle 3" like the GG 3" and Rupes Mini? That would be very cool!! I haven't tried any Rupes so I can't comment. I set my PC7424 XP with a 2 7/8" backing plate to handle the 3" pads. Works awesome! The GG 3" IMO is now a nice paper weight!!....LOL

That would indeed be awesome - maybe they will surprise us at SEMA this year \m/

[Mach1USMC]

No, unfortunately not, but I want to get out to a few detailer training classes out on the west coast to try out equipment while learning the trade.

For now, I am taking my time to piece everything together for my business. I don't plan to launch until like the near end of the first quarter, 2015. So, I have time to do a little research and build some bank to buy my equipment.

My biggest concerns are:
- good results, since the finished product will be my reputation
- durability for standing up to the everyday grind of detailing
- reasonable price, if possible
- I don't want to have to spend twice on the piece of equipment if I don't have to.

I appreciate the help though. Good information to know.

I use both the Flex 3401 and the LHR15 (which broke on me 2 weeks ago but I digress) the Flex does everything the Rupes can do, but it corrects a lot faster due to it's forced rotation. So if you're doing production detailing like I do the Flex will make you more $ because it saves you time.

I also just got a PE-14, man oh man I am kicking myself for not getting a rotary sooner. It's SO much faster than a DA it blew my mind.

If I had to pick just one DA that could do it all it would be 3401 all day.

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

I also just got a PE-14, man oh man I am kicking myself for not getting a rotary sooner. It's SO much faster than a DA it blew my mind.

If I had to pick just one DA that could do it all it would be 3401 all day.

Congrats! The PE14 is one fine machine.

Agreed.

[thebamboo23]

For now, I am taking my time to piece everything together for my business. I don't plan to launch until like the near end of the first quarter, 2015. So, I have time to do a little research and build some bank to buy my equipment.

why are you going to wait that long?

[Scott@IncrediblyDetailed]

Rupes 21 - Big Flat Panels
Flex - Curves
Rupes Mini - Tight Areas
PC - Sanding, Carpet Brushes

[Silverhorse84]

If money was no object I'd go with the flex and a rupes mini. If it is I'd go GG6" with a plan to get a flex then use the GG6" with small plates for the intricate areas.

Agreed with the Flex all the way. But wouldn't it be neat if the Flex came in a mini size that can handle 3" like the GG 3" and Rupes Mini? That would be very cool!! I haven't tried any Rupes so I can't comment. I set my PC7424 XP with a 2 7/8" backing plate to handle the 3" pads. Works awesome! The GG 3" IMO is now a nice paper weight!!....LOL

Thanks for the feed back. As a new business, I am wondering if springing for the smaller 3" polisher is something I can wait on. Or, should I go ahead and get one at the same time as buying one of the larger models?

Are the smaller polishers used during the course of detailing justify the extra money spent?

[Silverhorse84]

I use both the Flex 3401 and the LHR15 (which broke on me 2 weeks ago but I digress) the Flex does everything the Rupes can do, but it corrects a lot faster due to it's forced rotation. So if you're doing production detailing like I do the Flex will make you more $ because it saves you time.

I also just got a PE-14, man oh man I am kicking myself for not getting a rotary sooner. It's SO much faster than a DA it blew my mind.

If I had to pick just one DA that could do it all it would be 3401 all day.

I'll have to keep the Flex in mind as I want to be as productive as possible. Thanks.

[BrandonS]

You wont regret getting a flex. The other two are good machines but the flex is the way to go if you only own one. I have a dewalt 849x I use for boats, a cyclo and flex3401 and my flex is the one that gets used most of the time.

[The Critic]

I've said this before - the only people recommending a 3401 over a Rupes 21, are those who have not used a Rupes properly.

[David Hayward]

I've said this before - the only people recommending a 3401 over a Rupes 21, are those who have not used a Rupes properly.

I haven't used one at all but I'm probably going to toss it on the Christmas list.